Harm Reduction Issues

Tobacco Harm Reduction

Tobacco Harm Reduction (THR) is an evidence-based approach that reduces the health risks caused by smoking combustible cigarettes. Rather than requiring people to quit nicotine entirely, THR focuses on lowering exposure to the most harmful aspects of tobacco use — especially combustion.

People who use drugs smoke at higher rates than the general population and experience disproportionate tobacco-related illness and death, yet tobacco use is often ignored in harm reduction and substance use treatment settings, leaving many without accurate information or access to safer alternatives.

THR recognizes tobacco and nicotine products exist on a spectrum of risk. Switching from combustible cigarettes to lower-risk options, such as nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) or other non-combustible products, can significantly reduce harm. By meeting people where they are, correcting misinformation, and respecting individual goals, THR supports people who use drugs and all people in making informed decisions that improve health without judgment or punishment.